Representatives play a crucial role in guaranteeing access to the rights under this Directive and in safeguarding the best interests of all unaccompanied children. The early appointment of representatives is essential for tackling situations of migrant children going missing in the Union. Member States should ensure that representatives are appointed as early as possible, in line with the 1989 United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, to ensure that unaccompanied children benefit fully from their rights as applicants for international protection granted under this Directive.